While France is mostly known for the French language, there is considerable growth towards incorporating English in school programs, with several universities offering English-taught programs. Thus, when applying to such universities– bachelor’s, master’s, or doctoral, you must demonstrate proficiency in the English language. For non-native speakers, one of the most common ways to do this is by submitting IELTS (International English Language Testing System) scores.
English proficiency is vital for understanding lectures, reading academic texts, writing assignments, and participating in class discussions. This article will provide information about some of the top universities in France accepting IELTS scores.
Minimum IELTS Band Scores for French Universities
If you are considering studying in a French university with English programs, here are some of the universities accepting IELTS scores.
| INSTITUTION NAME |
MIN. SCORE (UNDERGRADUATE) |
MIN. SCORE (GRADUATE) |
| HEC Paris |
6.5 |
6.5 |
| Université Paris Cité |
6.5 |
6.5 |
| Schiller International University |
6.0 |
6.0 |
| Université Catholique de Lyon |
6.5 |
6.5 |
| Université PSL |
5.5 |
5.5 |
| Université de Tours |
5.0 |
5.0 |
| Toulouse School of Management |
7 – 8 |
7 – 8 |
1. HEC Paris
HEC Paris is one of the most prestigious business schools in France and is widely recognized for its rigorous academic programs, global reputation, and influential alumni network. It offers a variety of programs in English, including MBA, Executive MBA, and undergraduate business degrees.
HEC Paris generally requires international students to demonstrate proficiency in English if their prior education was not in English. For English-taught programs, including their MBA and Executive MBA, the general IELTS score requirement is a minimum of 6.5.
2. Université Paris Cité
Université Paris Cité is a major public university in Paris, created from the merger of several institutions, including Université Paris Diderot (Paris 7) and Université Paris Descartes (Paris 5). It offers a wide range of English-taught programs across various fields such as humanities, sciences, medicine, and social sciences.
Université Paris Cité accepts the IELTS English language test with a minimum score of 6.5 for the English-taught programs. This score also applies to students studying exchange programs at the university.
3. Schiller International University Paris
One of the best private universities in France is Schiller International University (SIU). It is a global university with campuses in multiple locations, including Paris, Madrid, and Heidelberg. Many of the programs at Schiller are taught in English to cater to international students from all over the world. Undergraduate and graduate applicants must score at least 6.0 on the IELTS test to apply for English-taught programs.
While students whose first language is not English will have to demonstrate proficiency in English, those from a country where English is the primary language like the United States, the UK, Canada, or Australia will be exempt from submitting an English proficiency test score.
4. Université Catholique de Lyon
Université Catholique de Lyon (UCLy) is a private Catholic university located in Lyon, France. It offers a wide range of programs, many of which are taught in French, but it also offers several English-taught programs aimed at international students.
Some of the English-taught programs include the LL.M. in International Business Law which requires a minimum IELTS score of 6.5 and the Double degree in Bachelor of Laws & LL.B. of Law with a minimum IELTS score of 7.0 with at least a score of 6.0 in all the sections.
5. Université PSL
Université PSL (Paris Sciences et Lettres) is a prestigious group of higher education institutions in Paris, which includes renowned schools such as École Normale Supérieure (ENS Paris), Ministère de l’Éducation Nationale, and others.
For international students applying to English-taught programs at PSL, proof of English language proficiency is typically required. The university accepts the IELTS test with a minimum score of 6.5 in Quantitative Economics and Fashion and Materials master’s degrees. Some programs like the field of Energy require at least a B2 level of English corresponding to an IELTS score of 5.5.
6. University of Tours
Another top university in France accepting IELTS scores is the Université de Tours. While most of the courses at this university are taught in French, the university also offers English-taught programs, particularly at the graduate level.
For students applying to English-taught programs at Université de Tours, proof of English proficiency is required in the Master Planning and Sustainability and Erasmus + International Master of Science in Infectious Diseases and One Health with a minimum IELTS score of 5.0.
7. Toulouse School of Management
Toulouse School of Management (TSM) is a renowned business school located in Toulouse, France, and is part of the Université Toulouse 1 Capitole.
TSM is known for its international outlook and offers several English-taught programs, especially at the doctoral level, with accepted IELTS scores of 7-8, corresponding to a C1 CEFR level.
FAQs: IELTS Acceptance in France
Do Universities in France Consider Students Who Have Not Passed the IELTS Exam?
Yes, universities in France can consider students who have not passed the IELTS exam, but the situation depends on the specific circumstances. Many universities like HEC Paris and Université PSL accept other standardized English language proficiency tests, including TOEFL and TOEIC. In some cases, some universities may waive the need for an IELTS score if you completed your previous education in English.
Additionally, students from countries where English is the primary language like Canada or New Zealand may be exempted from submitting an IELTS score.
Is it Compulsory to Take the IELTS Even if You are Applying for a French-taught Program?
Yes and No. First, it is not compulsory to take the IELTS exam if you are applying for a French-taught program at a university in France, as long as you meet the university’s language requirements in French. If the program is taught in French, most universities will require proficiency in French through standardized tests like DELF and DALF.
However, there are instances where the program is taught partially in English and French. In this case, you have to prove proficiency in English and French. Additionally, some programs like the International Master in Business Studies at the University of Burgundy require one to be proficient in English and French.
While IELTS is a widely accepted English language proficiency test for international students in France, the band scores differ from one institution to another. Most universities require a minimum IELTS score of 6.0 for undergraduate programs and 6.5 for graduate programs. However, many institutions like HEC Paris offer alternatives, such as accepting other language tests or providing waivers based on previous education in English-speaking environments. We hope the above article will help you prepare adequately for the IELTS English language requirement of your chosen school in France.
We hope that this article on the IELTS Band Requirements for universities in France was helpful. If you are interested in studying in France, make sure to check out the Available Programs in Europe and Study in France sections!
